Chris confirmed that a private family ceremony would be held on Tuesday, while a memorial service would be held on January 15, 2018, in Pretoria.

Eloff was well-known for presiding over the Chris Hani case and his sentencing of the South African Communist Party (SACP) leader's killers to death.

The late judge president was also instrumental in appointing to the Bench Advocate Ismael Mahomed as well as the appointment of other barristers of colour including retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke.

Eloff also made headlines when in 1989 he ruled against the Carletonville City Council, which had decided that parks in their area may only be used by whites.

One of the highlights of his career was when he met the late Nelson Mandela, with who he later became good friends. Their friendship started when Eloff had to swear in members of Mandela's cabinet.

Eloff also presided over the high profile divorce of Nelson Mandela and his former wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.